If you're single-handed, and if reefing lines are NOT run aft, I think leaving the main halyard on the mast makes sense. An autopilot or effective self steering helps tremendously, of course.. but leaving it all on the mast means a single trip out of the cockpit to hoist, douse, or reef.

I also agree with the premise that running a jib halyard aft, and downhaul if hanked on, makes sense sailing shorthanded. Double lifelines, netting or lacing can help keep a dropped headsail on deck in that case.

Ron

1984 Fast/Nicholson 345 "FastForward"

".. there is much you could do at sea with common sense.. and very little you could do without it.."
Capt G E Ericson (from "The Cruel Sea" by Nicholas Monsarrat)